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Identifying and Managing Psoriatic Arthritis

Identifying and Managing Psoriatic Arthritis

The occurrence of red, scaly skin patches and intense joint pain is usually indicative of psoriatic arthritis. It’s a form of inflammatory arthritis with symptoms such as joint stiffness, swelling in the wrists and fingers, fatigue, and back pain. Knowing its causes and treatments can help manage this potentially disabling disease. This blog will discuss what causes psoriatic arthritis, how to identify its symptoms, and which foods may benefit people with psoriatic arthritis.

What triggers psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis may affect joints such as the spine, fingers, toes, and hips. It’s normally diagnosed through simple lab tests to detect inflammation and antibody levels in the body. Its symptoms are stiff joints, body pain, swelling in different body parts, tiny dents in nails, inflammation, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and fatigue.

The condition may be triggered by severe stress, infections, certain treatments, the use of tobacco, injuries or wounds. If you experience these symptoms and need psoriatic arthritis relief, you must consult your healthcare provider immediately. The following are a few methods of treatment for psoriatic arthritis:
UV light (therapy for severe cases)
Anti-inflammatory remedies (to help alleviate the pain)
Biologics (a process to block inflammation-causing proteins)
Surgery (to replace a joint with a metal counterpart)

6 foods to manage psoriatic arthritis

Walnuts
Walnuts are a healthful addition to any meal plan, especially for those managing psoriatic arthritis. Studies have shown that consuming walnuts can reduce inflammation in the body. It can be beneficial in providing relief to joint pain and other physical symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis. Walnuts are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which help protect health by reducing disease-causing free radicals. These radicals are unstable atoms that damage other atoms and cause inflammation. Additionally, high omega-3 and vitamin E levels in the nut may help reduce the pain and stiffness usually felt when dealing with this autoimmune disorder. You can blend a handful of walnuts into breakfast smoothies, top your pancakes with crushed walnuts, or eat them whole.

Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate has health benefits for those struggling with psoriatic arthritis. It is a natural source of polyphenols (antioxidants) that can reduce inflammation and decrease joint swelling caused by psoriatic arthritis. Additionally, dark chocolate contains omega-3 fatty acids, giving it anti-inflammatory properties to help manage symptoms of the condition. Eating dark chocolate can improve overall health by strengthening the immune system and aiding digestion. To reap its health benefits and manage psoriatic arthritis symptoms, enjoy two ounces or less of dark chocolate daily to ensure you’re not over-consuming sugar.

Brown rice
Brown rice is an incredibly healthful food that may promote healing for those with psoriatic arthritis. This grain is full of complex carbohydrates known to break down slowly into glucose, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, providing an influx of energy throughout the body. In addition to this metabolic benefit, brown rice provides a rich source of fiber, which helps maintain satiety while keeping digestion regular. Additionally, brown rice contains flavonoids that can help protect cells from damage caused by arthritis and other environmental factors. Finally, consuming brown rice regularly gives your body a powerful dose of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and manganese. These minerals are essential in managing symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, such as joint pain and swelling.

Flax seeds
Flax seeds can be a great asset in managing psoriatic arthritis. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flax seeds have been proven to reduce inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis and aid in pain management. Moreover, their lignans, which are plant compounds with antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory properties, can help counteract some of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Regular consumption of this food item may even slow down the progression of psoriatic arthritis. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, flax seeds provide other health benefits such as improved digestion and a better functioning immune system.

Dark berries
Dark berries, such as blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and acai berries, are a great addition to any diet to help manage psoriatic arthritis. These fruits provide a wide range of essential vitamins (such as C and K) and minerals (such as iron and manganese), which can be easily consumed fresh or frozen. As dark berries possess anti-inflammatory properties, they work wonders in relieving the painful symptoms associated with the condition. Furthermore, the antioxidants in them can inhibit certain molecules responsible for causing inflammation. Whether you choose blueberries blended into your favorite smoothie or sprinkle a handful of blackberries atop your cereal in the morning, incorporating dark berries into your health regimen can help promote health and treat psoriatic arthritis!

Ground spices
Ground spices can benefit people with psoriatic arthritis as they contain health-promoting properties. Curcumin, an active component of ground turmeric and curry powder, contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can reduce inflammation. It also helps to prevent oxidative damage (oxygen imbalance), which is linked to psoriatic arthritis flare-ups. Consuming curcumin supplements significantly reduces joint pain and swelling associated with this health condition. Nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, available in some ground spices such as ginger, rosemary, and turmeric, can also help boost immunity, improving health over time.

In addition, ground cinnamon could help alleviate symptoms due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, induce blood circulation in affected joints, and reduce redness and stiffness. Ground cloves may relieve chronic joint pains due to their analgesic (pain-relief) properties.

In conclusion
Recognizing the signs and understanding potential causes of psoriatic arthritis can help you accurately identify them and take proactive steps to manage your symptoms. Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as salmon and certain fruits while avoiding processed foods can help reduce inflammation and improve your well-being. Exercises such as swimming or pilates might be great for managing your pain. Additionally, working with physical therapists can provide further support if needed. Above all, remember to speak with your physician, who can assess your situation more accurately and make personalized recommendations.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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9 Early Signs and Symptoms of Lupus to Note

Living with a chronic illness such as lupus can be challenging and unpredictable, with the condition changing daily. Knowing its early signs and symptoms is an important part of living with this disease since it allows for better management. This article will discuss nine common symptoms of lupus. Read on to explore the warning signs, from skin rashes to joint pain, and get in touch with a healthcare professional if you identify any of them. What is lupus?Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, is a complex autoimmune disease affecting the body's immune system, which normally protects it against foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. It is a chronic disorder in which the body's immune system attacks its healthy tissues and organs. It can cause inflammation throughout the body, but mostly in joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, the brain, and other organs. Lupus can affect people differently; its symptoms range from mild to life-threatening. Systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis often involves an assessment of a patient’s overall health history, physical exams, laboratory tests, and imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds. If you experience any of the symptoms detailed below, visiting your physician at the earliest is advisable.9 early symptoms of lupusLight sensitivityLight sensitivity with lupus occurs when the skin breaks out in rashes or blisters in certain areas as a reaction to sunlight. While everybody may experience mild skin reddening after prolonged exposure to the sun, people with lupus experience much more severe symptoms, such as itching and burning sensations. Such reactions can be even more severely heightened when using tanning beds or under other forms of artificial light sources.FeverIn people with lupus, fever often appears as sudden periods of high temperature followed by sudden returns to normal body heat. The cause of the fever during a lupus flare is believed to be due to inflammation, triggered when the body's immune system inappropriately attacks itself. Other symptoms accompanying lupus fever include chills, headaches, and general fatigue.Hair lossHair loss is a surprisingly common health issue that can be attributed to lupus. This autoimmune disorder affects many different areas of the body, including skin, hormonal health, and even hair health. In some cases, people may experience alopecia areata, which manifests as patches of hair loss across the scalp. Lupus can also cause androgenic alopecia, leading to diffuse thinning (hair shedding from all areas of the scalp) or baldness. The hair loss may be due to inflammation caused by the immune system attacking the body's organs. AnemiaAnemia is a common symptom of lupus. It occurs because lupus can cause the immune system to attack red blood cells. This causes inadequate oxygen to be delivered to other parts of the body, thus leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and pallor (paleness) from a lack of healthy red blood cells. Additionally, due to the decreased oxygen levels in affected individuals, their organs have difficulty working properly, and they may experience dizziness or become lightheaded.A butterfly-shaped rashA butterfly-shaped rash on the face, spanning across the bridge of the nose and cheeks, is a telltale sign of lupus. Generally, this rash appears in shades of red, which can sometimes cause discoloration on your skin. While this may be alarming to some people at first sight, it is typically a relatively harmless symptom associated with lupus. Health professionals advise seeking professional attention once this type of rash appears. Cognitive problemsIt is estimated that cognitive issues, such as confusion and memory loss, occur in up to half of people with lupus. Cognitive problems can manifest in different forms for different patients - from memory loss, slowed thought processes, and difficulty concentrating to disorientation, confusion, and hallucinations. Disturbances in mental health, also known as "lupus fog", are also possible. As lupus is an autoimmune disorder, it causes immunological (relating to the immune system) changes within the brain, leading to such issues. Joint painJoint pain is a common health complaint among those with lupus and can appear in more than one body part. Joint pain is one of the body's responses to lupus attacking the body's healthy tissues. It can be mild, such as a subtle achy feeling in certain joints, or immense and severe, causing debilitating pain. Joint issues often flare up or swell while experiencing an episode of lupus, leaving sufferers feeling immobile and sore. Symptoms may be localized to a single joint or affect multiple joints simultaneously. Commonly affected areas include knees, wrists, elbows, hips, hands, shoulders, and feet. Mouth soresMouth sores can be a troublesome symptom of lupus, typically presenting as ulcers in the mouth or nose. These sores can also range from tiny red bumps to, in more severe cases, inflamed gums and jaw pain. Such sores are often painful and difficult to treat. In some cases, they can lead to loss of appetite, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system if left unmanaged. These so-called ulcerative mucocutaneous lesions can also appear on different body parts. It further contributes to physical discomfort and health complications.Kidney problemsLupus can cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys. This condition is known as lupus nephritis, which can affect up to 50% of people with lupus. Lupus nephritis occurs when the immune system attacks the kidneys, causing damage to the kidneys' small blood vessels and leading to various issues with the organ's functioning. Some of them are given below: ProteinuriaThe presence of excess protein in the urine indicates that the kidneys are not functioning properly.HematuriaThis is the presence of blood in the urine, which can be a sign of kidney damage.High blood pressureLupus nephritis can cause high blood pressure, further damaging and disturbing the immune system.EdemaLupus nephritis can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and sometimes in the face and hands.Decreased kidney functionOver time, lupus nephritis can cause a decrease in kidney function, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. In conclusionLiving with lupus can seem daunting, but understanding the signs and symptoms is a great place to start. Becoming familiar with the signs is important to know when to seek professional attention. Talking to friends, family, and other members of your support system can also be quite beneficial when it comes to living with lupus. Seek resources such as local support groups or mental health providers specializing in chronic illnesses. These tools can help those with lupus understand how best to deal with their condition in the long run.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

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